Covaxin Can Be An Effective Booster Shot Against Variants: NIV Scientists

Pune: With SARS-CoV-2 variants likely to define the next phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, scientists at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) have said that a booster dose of Covaxin may provide a solution to the menace posed by the evolving virus and offer “long-term protection.” A booster dose against Covid is being explored in some countries with other vaccines. Similar research is being considered in India too, said ICMR-NIV director Priya Abraham.

- Umesh.Isalkar

BOOSTER RESEARCH

• In April, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said vaccinated people may need a booster dose of a Covid-19 vaccine within 12 months of completing their two-dose schedule

• Moderna too is testing boosters. In May, the company claimed positive results in initial booster tests against variants

• In India, Bharat Biotech has been given permission to explore if a third dose of Covaxin, given six months after the second, boosts and extends immune response

• This week, AstraZeneca researchers said a third dose of their vaccine generated a strong immune response in trial volunteers